Family Affair

Oh My How Time Flies...

2010-04-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

Well, so much has happened it is hard to know where to begin.

I filed for divorce, which is still pending. However, it will be over by the very latest in August :) We also moved and the transition went well for my lil man. He is super fab:)

Ant is huge and talking up a storm. I swear he is a genius! And, I am not just saying that because I am his mother... I hear it all the time. I also get told that people can tell I work with him and do a lot with him because it is reflected in his manners and vocabulary. O.k., so this was a lil pat on my back... nothin' like tootin' your own horn *wink**wink*.

I promise to post more... or at least attempt:) Also, I will post some pics of my sunshine later today.

Cheers and I've missed you all! Can't wait to get caught up!

2 Year Check-Up

2009-10-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

Ant' man had his this past Friday. We weighs 31 lbs of solid muscle (not lyin') and is exactly 36 inches tall. He is in the 80th percentile for height and weight. I believe his head was 48 centimeters?? I could be wrong, this is from memory.:)

He was an absolute angel at the doctor office. He just stood there and allowed to the doctor to check his eyes, ears, heart, and mouth without even being in my arms. *do you hear some whimpering? if so don't panic, it is just me cryin' cuz my lil guy is growing up:(* I was glad to find out he wasn't due for any vaccinations. However, I did opt to get him a flu shot.

The doctor left and in came the nurse to give my son the shot. I was kind of dreading it even though he always did so well with shots, but this time he was older and more "aware". That intimidated me some. Though, my lil guy sure did surprise me. The nurse gave him the shot and this is how my son reacted:

"Momma, I got an owie!"

No tears, no whimpering, no flinching, NOTHING... the nurse laughed at his reaction as did I. He said he never, in all his years of doing this, has had a child react to shot that way.

At the visit he received a book. They do this as part of a literacy program. He already had this book (The Wheels on The Bus), but from a different author. He graciously accepted it and upon our departure informed me, "Momma, I got a book and an owie!" I stopped in my tracks, scooped him up, and planted the biggest kiss on him. He is just too stinkin' cute!

I think I will tuck this away into those cherished memories.

Do you have any memorable moments at a doctor visit with your kids?

My Son is Two:( Today...

2009-10-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

Two years have flown by with him. He is my life and so much fun to be with. We started the celebration off by heading to Miami last Thursday. His Nana and Papa threw him a bash for his 2nd birthday that was stellar. Everyone had a blast, as you will see from the pictures. We returned on Monday. I took yesterday and today off. Yesterday to recover. Today because we were suppose to go to Legoland. Well, we drove the hour and 20 minutes to Legoland only to find out they are closed today. We turned around and came home. :( I was upset but lil man had no idea what was going on so it was all good:) Oh well, maybe I'll take him there this weekend?!

At his birthday party, which was on Saturday, at C.B. Smith Park, he had a farm bounce house that was A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. if I may say so myself! In addition to the bounce house, he had two ponies. At first he was a lil intimidated by the ponies, but quickly got over it, as you will see in the pictures.

Speaking of pictures... I took 289 pictures of his birthday party. The theme was jungle animals. The cake was cupcake birthday cake (first time I have ever seen one of these cakes - super cool and I highly recommend for any party!).

Birthday Boy and His Nana

His Cake

Part of the Set-up Before People Arrived

Anthony Enjoying A lollipop with real sugar (something he never gets) before guests arrived

Anthony in the bounce house before guests arrived

Him and Emily in the Bounce House

Anthony on the Pony

Anthony While We Sang "Happy Birthday"

Thanks for looking. His birthday party was so much fun and I cannot wait to be back East! :)

Wordless Wednesday - My son with one of his b-day gifts...

2009-09-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

Even though his birthday isn't until next Wednesday. The package arrived and he knew instantly what it was and begged for me to take it out. He waited patiently while the electric pump blew it up! Then bounced contently for 45 minutes.

My Two Year Old Is A Teenager...

2009-09-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Can someone tell me how that happened? Seriously, I thought all the teenager fun stuff (i.e., ignoring me when speaking to him, rolling of the eyes, and talking back) didn't happen until, well, they were actually in their teens. Why is my almost two year old behaving this way? I mean, I have heard of terrible two's but never this. He has a mind of his own and is definitely trying to gain more (key word is more because he is already very independent) independence. Which is cute... to a certain extent.

Cute when we arrive at a store and as I am getting him out of his carseat he says, "I walk!" That is cute. Not so cute is when we are in the store and he still wants to walk but not listen (or hold my hand) and he says, "No Mommy, I do it!" Then proceeds to yell and cry when I explain that if he doesn't hold my hand he doesn't get to walk. Also, can someone explain why he will listen while we are walking from the car to the store, but the second we step one centimeter past the store's doors he forgets to listen?

Oh what fun times. Then, at home he completely ignores me when I ask him a question. He is way too involved with his toys or a movie. In fact, most of the time the only response I get is a @@ *roll of the eyes*. Like a teenager. As if what I said was totally awful and so not cool!

Well his new found independence I am sure is going to bring some really exciting times for me when we travel. This should be fun *note sarcasm*. I am praying he turns back into my perfect lil angel for our flights:) Please pray for the same!

What were your kids like at the "terrible two's" or what is your most dreaded fear of "terrible two's"?

Wordless Wednesday - My son playing and him showing us his "owie"

2009-09-23T17:57:00.000-07:00

Here he is playing with his favorite toys. He makes sound affects when he fills them up with gas and he also makes them talk. In addition, he tells a story as he plays. Sometimes I understand and sometimes I don't! Enjoy and thanks for looking.

Do your kid(s) (or yourself) have a favorite "toy"?

Remember the Haircut I Mentioned?

2009-09-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

Well, the place where I take my son to get his haircut, which I won't be going back, is in a city I don't frequent. EVER! Only for his haircuts. Every time I go there I use my GPS to guide me there. Well, this time it got us there with no problems. However, getting us home was a whole 'nother story.

We left the hair salon as we usually do. But, the GPS instructed me to take a turn down a road I never turn down. I know what you’re thinking. You’re thinking if I am aware the GPS is instructing me to take a turn onto a road it normally never does then why am I even using the GPS? Well, I am "familiar" with the route, but not comfortable going at it alone! I get stage fright.

So, I proceeded down this “new” road. Then, I suddenly became worried. It looked like it was a dead end yet the GPS was telling me to forge ahead. I saw cars turning to the right or left, but NONE proceeding forward. I proceeded forward.

We hit a patch of dirt road. Then about 20 seconds into the dirt road there was a sign…

Gotta tell ya... I was super excited the sign confirmed my suspicions about the pavement... just wish it would have done it SOONER!

What it really should have said is this:

DANGER: This is a dirt/gravel/bumpy ass path (not a road) on the edge of a mountain and it will be about 10 miles before you hit any kind of pavement or see any kind of life again. If you like risks, please proceed. If not, turn around now but be VERY careful as the gravel is loose.

My son thought this was the coolest. He was in the back going, "weeeee, yeee-haaawwwww," "bbbbuuuuuummmmmpppyyyy." I did not. I have a major fear of heights while driving. And, when I say it was on the edge of a mountain I am being serious. I was freaked out. If I went faster than 5 mph we were fish-tailing and it was bumpier than ride on a wooden rollercoaster in a earthquake. It wasn't that my vehicle couldn't handle this because I drive a Jeep Commander. It was just the road (but I don't really want to call it that because it was anything but a road). We survived and that is the good thing. But, don't be fooled, the second I hit pavement I flew home.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, this little detour took us an extra 40 minutes to get home.

Do you have any experiences, good or bad, with a GPS? If so, please share.

A Walk in the Park...

2009-09-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

This weekend was another relaxing weekend. I had some things that needed to be taken care of before we leave for the East coast next week. Like, Ant man needed a haircut and I had some errands to run. Sunday was our play day. After his nap we headed to the New Children's Museum. When we arrived I learned they were closed. :( Normally they are closed on Wednesday for cleaning, but for some unknown reason they decided to close on Sunday, just that Sunday. I was a little upset because we drove all that way and they were closed, but I decided to make the best of it.

We headed across the street to some "grassy" (are there any grassy areas in San Diego?) area with small hills, tons of birds, and homeless people. Ant man had a blast just playing with nature. He chased birds, picked flowers, hid rocks in trees, waved hello to all the homeless people, ran up and down the hills, I picked dandelions and blew the pappus (the white cotton like fuzz) off of them (he thought that was the COOLEST but refused to do it himself), and he tried to give the birds his flowers. Here are some pictures from our extravaganza. He is so cute! Again, I am biased:)

Again, sorry about quality, these were taken with my phone!

I'm Enjoying My Cupcake, Are You?

2009-09-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

WOW, either I am a way too relaxed as a mom or some moms (and dads) just need to let go. I love my friend, dearly, but she is way too uptight. Being a mom is supposed to be fun, hard work, but fun!

This past Saturday, my lil man and myself went to my friend's son's birthday, he just turned one. My son will be two next month. He can walk, climb, run, feed himself, talk, express all of his needs verbally (even when I don't want him to:)), and is VERY independent. At their house he was the only kid, aside from the birthday boy.

When we arrived my friend told me that there was food in the kitchen. My son is a very picky eater and I knew the only thing he would eat was the fruit. They had grapes, strawberries, and watermelon - all of his faves! I made him a plate. He went to sit at the table and everyone was like, "will he eat those grapes - like that (they were whole, I don't cut them b/c he won't eat them cut!)" "will he just sit there, he won't fall or try to get up (nope, he sits at the table cuz he was taught manners)". Oh, and he climbed up into the chair on his own and they about had a heart attack. Freaking out I tell ya. Running to him and looking at me as if I was a horrible mother that I would allow my son to climb up into the dining room chair all on his own. Umm, he climbs on a daily basis. He is a boy. He is a toddler. AND, we frequent the park A LOT. His climbing skills are superb! He can manage. If he falls, well, then he learns what not to do next time.

Right!?! Please tell me if I am wrong. In case you didn't read in one of the previous paragraphs, my son is independent. If I were to help him get into the chair when he has already taken it upon himself to get in there he would have had a temper tantrum. Then I could forget about him eating the fruit. But...

What I want to know is when do parents let go and let their child figure things out on their own? Me, I have done this pretty much since my son was born. I mean, of course, I was telling him to change his diaper or anything. I am talking about when he started batting at his toys, then reaching for them, then grabbing them, then manipulating them, then rolling over, then sitting up, then crawling, then walking... catchin' my drift? I mean, I was there to guide him, of course, and show him at first but he is the one who had to figure it out. If I kept on "showing" him, he would not learn or possibly learn at a slower rate. Or, become way too dependent. Not saying being dependent is a bad thing, but too much of anything is bad.

I haven't even told you the best part yet! My son was sitting at the table and the my friend's husband was in the chair next to my son. My son was playing with the candles that were on the cake (no, they weren't lit). They had some icing on them. My son put his hand on my friend's husband's shorts and he about had a heart attack right then and there. I kid you not! He FREAKED because there was now a very, teeny, tiny, small amount of icing on his jean shorts. Really!?!? Do you not have a washing machine??!! Or are you guys strict with when clothing can be washed too?!!? I didn't say anything to him. I just let it go (bravo me *patting self on the back*) and felt very sorry for their little boy. What else could I do?

Any way, if you are wondering why I am posting about this it is for this simple reason: We cannot enjoy life if we are so focused on the smallest of crumbs because life is more than just a crumb, it's a cupcake. Warm, gooey, and delicious when eaten in full. Please try to enjoy your cupcake, who knows when it will be gone or if there will be more.

Now, on to what my son likes to do... he likes to remove all of the cushions from the couch and place them on the floor. He likes to jump on them and say, "bounce!" Then, he also likes to chill on them. Look how frickin' cute he is:) Yes, I am biased, but I'm allowed to be!!! (sorry about quality, taken with phone)

As always, thanks for reading. Let me know if there is something you get irritated with about other parents, or something you admire in other parents and wish you could be more like!

Featuring A Blog: Motherhood: Livin The Dream...

2009-09-10T10:04:00.000-07:00

I have a friend, shocking I know, who also has a blog, another shocker I know. She is way cool, and you will wish you were just like her *wink*! Seriously, heart of gold and a way with words that could turn even the boring-est (is that even a word) of stories into a magical story. Crafty in all areas of her life. Well, she has a blog, and she needs some love. Oh, her name is Capi - even has a cool name to boot! Her blog is Motherhood: Livin the Dream.

Not your typical mommy blog, she writes about homeschooling, which she just started doing this year, and other random tidbits sometimes related to motherhood and sometimes not, but they all have a dramatic flair and make you think. I promise, if you visit her blog you will not be let down, but will be entertained. Plus, you might learn something. So please check out her blog and follow if you like. XOXO

Thanks ladies and gents!

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-09-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

We went to the beach on Monday for Labor Day. Normally I would have tons of pictures, but my son wanted to leave after only two hours (which is odd because he LOVES the beach and water and never wants to leave once we get there). We were on our way back from the bathroom and he insisted that we leave...

(sitting in chair eating raisins while watching the waves roll in)

We packed up and by the time I got back to the car, this is what my sweet sunshine was doing! I knew he was tired but he kept telling me he wanted to go home!

Anyone have a rock I can borrow? (Long, grab a cup of joe n get comfy!)

2009-09-05T21:31:00.000-07:00

Why? To hide under! OMGoodness, my son was a terror today. Something seriously possessed him in his sleep last night. He woke up foolin' me with his loving smile and warm, tender kisses. Then, I pulled back his curtain and let the morning light shine in. He was fine with that. Did what we do every morning and said, "good morning world," while waving to the outside. He got dressed, ate breakfast, and then we went outside to play.

This is when the fun began. He was so indecisive. Couldn't decide if he wanted to ride his bike, his four-wheeler, his push-car-buggy (this requires my assistance which is not a problem), be pulled in the wagon, or ride his scooter. So, he did all of the above. But that didn't satisfy him. Each thing he did for less than 30 seconds. Seriously! We would be half-way down the street and he would get off and say, "all done!" Left me to carry whatever he was on back to the house.

Finally I had enough of this, but he wanted to go for a ride (a ride as in a ride in my car!). I needed a shower (cuz I stunk from working out:)) I bated him back into the house. Oh, wait, before going outside I forgot to mention that he got into the cupboards, found the choc chips I use for baking, opened the bag, dumped them on the floor, and was shoveling them into his mouth by the fistfuls. He must have had about three fistfuls before I could get to him ! I think this is what did it.

Fast forward to nap time, yeah, or lack thereof. He fought his nap today. Something he has never done, he LOVES his sleep! Took him over an hour to fall asleep. Then he only slept for an hour - normally sleeps for at least two.

This didn't stop me from proceeding with the plans I had made, to myself. Which was to go to this little town about an hour away and eat apple pie. Well, eat dinner and then have apple pie for dessert. See, this town is supposedly "known" for its apple pie. TOTAL NIGHTMARE. He was a beaut on the drive there, but once we arrived it was awful. He didn't want to walk, didn't want to be in his stroller, but wanted me to hold him.

The original restaurant I wanted to go to (Julian's Cafe & Bakery), was not conducive for kids. No highchair or booster seats. Then they wanted me to put my almost two-years old son in a chair ACROSS from me. Are effing kidding me? Seriously, do you know what he would do? He is good, but not that good. Geesh, he is a toddler. So we left!

Found this CUTE cafe, Cowgirl Cafe. Menu wasn't that great, but that is o.k. Ant man was in a mood. He sat in his highchair but was obnoxious. Screaming, banging his cars on the table, spitting out his binkie, making raspberries on thin air, and refusing to eat. But, luckily the owner of the cafe was a woman, and he was flirting with her, so that calmed him down some. AND, luckily there was only one other group in the cafe eating!

We left here and went back to the other cafe because this is where the best apple pie in town was supposedly at. On the way to this cafe it was a nightmare, my son didn't want to hold my hand and walk, he didn't want to be in his stroller and was pitching a fit because he just wanted to run off and do what he wanted to do. He was crying, screaming, "NO, I WANT TO WALK!" People were of course staring at me. I started to laugh, because what else could I do. Someone told me I was a bad mother because I was laughing while my son was crying in the stroller. I laughed some more! He screamed the entire walk back to the car. Once he was in the car, he was a perfect angel.

Obviously I got a piece of apple pie to go. Got home, heated up the apple pie, put some of the homemade whipped cream on it, and sat down with my lil man to eat it. He refused it completely! Can you believe that? He wanted a pickle! What kid refuses sweets only to eat a pickle!?!?! My possessed child apparently. The apple pie was not worth it. A frozen Mrs. Smith's would have been a thousand times better.

Then it was finally bath time for him. WHEW! Oh, I forgot too mention that when I was getting ready after my shower I heard this ripping noise coming from the monitor. I went to his room only to find him tearing up his hide-n-seek books, ten of them to be exact! He laughed when he saw me! I laughed too! But not in front of him... I had to walk away. He is too cute sometimes!

Here are some pictures of the book mess!

Thanks for reading. I know it was long! Though, I would like to hear how you handle your kids when they are possessed (or seem to be), LOL!

Thoughtless Thursday - Pictures from Tuesday Night's Dinner

2009-09-03T17:38:00.000-07:00

I made homemade whole wheat waffles with fresh homemade whipped cream. The whole wheat waffles also had strawberry puree and fresh blueberries in them with some added protein powder and flax seed. This was the result...

Do you think he liked them (or even tasted them)?

Best Weekend! Aside from Sunday!

2009-08-31T14:45:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying it was hot, deadly hot here. Where I live it reached 106 degrees in the shade on both Saturday and Sunday. However, we still managed to have a wonderful weekend just the two of us. We haven't had a weekend where it was just the two of us in several weeks and it was much needed.

Once we woke up on Saturday we had breakfast. I had my much needed late, I made myself. We got ready for Lake Murray. Same lake in the pictures below. I ran while Ant man read to me from his stroller. Yes, it was blazing hot at 8:30 AM here, and if you really want to know it was 96 degrees when we arrived at the lake. I ran 9 miles in 50 minutes while pushing a jogging stroller holding a 30 lb toddler on hilly terrain. *applause*

After the run, we headed over to Toys 'R Us. I needed to buy a gift for a birthday party we are going to this coming Saturday, plus my lil man needed something. He ended up getting a grill set to go with his other outdoor toys... ya know the water table, kitchen, and workbench:) If I haven't said it before, and this is your first visit here, yes, my son is SPOILED, but doesn't act spoiled because I will tell him "no!" and he knows it too.

Then we headed home for some lunch and nap time. After nap time we went to the pool. Must admit I was highly impressed with how well he swam. He was kicking and using his arms to swim. Normally he is so overwhelmed with excitement about being in the pool he doesn't listen and is mainly swallowing water. Not this day though! It was as if he had been swimming his entire life! A lil fish!

Sunday, however, was not the best day - at least not for me. I ran before my lil man woke up so we could go to the mall early and he could play in the kid zone without being attacked by almost teenagers who don't belong in the kid zone according to the rules. If we waited until early afternoon or thereafter this is what we would have been faced with. All these big kids play in the area and have total disreguard for the kids it was intended for. I always go there early for this reason, to avoid these almost rambunctious teenagers.

Done with the rant...

Back to the story, after I got Anthony into his carseat I must have forgotten how tight a fit it was in the garage and whacked my head on the wall! Yes, I sure did. My right-side. My ears were ringing, a lil blood on the ear, but I forged ahead cuz to the mall we were heading. I should have stopped our plans right here.

Ant man is not that much of an eater, and if he does eat he is extremely picky - mainly eats fruits and veggies (this topic leads me to a whole other rant usually.) I packed some strawberries for our adventure. Since he did not eat his breakfast and I knew he would be running around I didn't want him to feel sick so I offered him the strawberries - while driving. Did I mention I had a white skirt on this day?!?! If not, I DID! Luckily my top was black:) I went to open the strawberries and for some reason they flew every where, when I say everywhere I mean everywhere all over my nice white skirt! We were at the half-way point to the mall and there was no way I was turning around becuase I knew if I did I wouldn't leave the house again. Yes, I walked through the mall with my white skirt with large red stains all over the front! I did this so my son could enjoy himself because I knew it was going to be way to hot for him to play outside at our house or for us to even go to the park.

My son was not feeling the kid zone that day. He wanted nothing to do with it. We were done within 5 seconds! Yes, your read right - 5 seconds! Though, we did do something I have always wanted to do and that is get our pics taken in one of those picture booths! Check it out.

After our adventure at the mall, I called it a day - for the both of us. We went home relaxed, watched movies, and read to each other! Oh, and we danced around the house because you gotta dance at least once a day!

Thanks for reading! If you are a new follower, please leave me a comment with a link back to your blog so I can follow you:)

Thoughtless Thursday...

2009-08-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday night I went for a run at the lake by my house with my lil man in the jogging stroller. Here are some pictures of my Ant man feeding the ducks...

What really needs to be captured on video...

2009-08-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

Ever since my lil man was born I have always sang to him. One song in particular is "You Are My Sunshine." I sing this song to him every day and several times a day at that. He now sings it with me.

Last night was the heart melts of all heart melts from him. I was getting him ready for bed after his bath. When we (I say "we" because it was a joint effort between lil man and myself) finished putting the lotion on and getting his jammies on he stood up so I could comb his hair. He waited patiently for his turn with the comb to, as I call it, "perfect it".

When he was done perfecting, he leaned in and said "sunshine." He wanted me to sing "You Are My Sunshine" to him. Like a good mother I obliged and sang away. All the while he sang with me. Of course, he is more like a back-up singer because he sings key words. For instance, when I sing the verse "you are my sunshine" he knows when sunshine is about to happen and will sing it. He does this throughout the song.

Melts my heart I tell ya! What melted my heart even more last night - didn't think that was possible but apparently it is! - was when we would finish singing it he would say, "again." We must of sang it 10 times all while hugging each other. It was fantastic. One of the best moments with him! Definitely a moment I will cherish for the rest of my life!

This was one of those times I wish I was on reality television so a moment like this could be captured forever. I know it is captured in my heart forever, but to see it played out would be nice too! LOL!

"What would your children say?" Wednesday

2009-08-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

I was a slacker last week (really have been for a while, LOL), but I am participating this week.

Welcome to another episode of "what would your children say?" Wednesday! Started by Marianne over at Family American Style. We are to share something memorable, funny, and/or entertaining our child(ren) have said in their lives that have stuck with us. If you want to participate, click on the icon below for instructions.

Ever since my son was born I would always use the word "honey" as a word of endearment when speaking to him. Such as, "I love you, honey," "thank you, honey," "good job, honey," and, well, you get the point. Now he says it to me... I am his "honey!" I love it because the way he says it is so sweet. He drawls out the "e" and the "y" and it sounds something like this "hunae." Like sundae minus the "s" and the "d". LOL.

He even does this out in public. When people hear him say this to me they just ooh and awe all over it. He, of course, eats it up and totally plays into them. I love my lil "hunae" he is truly an angel.

Timeless Tuesday

2009-08-18T05:28:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of my lil man at the park this past weekend. He was so cute and had so much fun. He actually stayed in the swing for about 30 minutes, which is rare because he usually wants in the swing. Then, literally, five seconds later will say, "all done." But not this weekend. He was smiling while the breeze was brushing his face. He is so cute!!

Cleaning House

2009-08-14T08:50:00.000-07:00

And not in the literal sense! I am cleaning house by going through my list of followers and the blogs that I follow. The ones that are not following me will no longer be graced with my presence as a follower. It is a tough job but someone has got to do it.

There are a few that do not follow me, but I will continue simply because I love what they write about. Not the typical "day in the life of a mother and her children" topics. Their writing has humor that allows me to escape from my reality for a brief moment. Don't get me wrong, I love to read about those "day in the life of a mother and her children" topics, but I also like a change.

A change is exactly what I am doing because I slowly started to realize that I am following a ton of blogs that are mainly blogging because of PR and hosting giveaways and every now and then will write something about their life. Sorry folks, that just doesn't interest me!

So, today is being spent by cleaning house and man is there a LOT of cleaning to be done. What, I have 89 followers, whom I <3, and am following roughly 300 blogs. YIKES!

If you don't hear from me by Monday, send in search and rescue! :)

"Your son needs a towel for splash day!"

2009-08-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

Those were the first words I heard come out of the program director's mouth when I picked my son up from daycare yesterday. Let me start by saying his daycare is fab-u-lous. They just don't get any better than this one! During the summer, every Wednesday for my son's classroom is splash day.

Splash day consists of water play. They have several small pools they fill with water, sprinklers, buckets, and the whole gamut. I have always, on every Monday, brought his sheet for his mat, his blanket for nap time, his board shorts, and his rash guard. Sunscreen is always there along with his swim dipes. Never, ever, have I thought to bring a freaking towel.

I remember when they first told me that they were going to be starting splash day because it had finally gotten consistently warm enough to do it, say oh, two months ago! They told me I needed to bring in gear for splash day. I asked what they meant. They said swimsuit, sunscreen, and swim dipes. Nothing about a towel. But, again, I should have thought of that myself! I didn't.

Can you tell I was a little devastated to hear that my son has been using another child's towel for the past two months on swim day? If not, I AM! There, now it is clear.

Why you wonder? Because, this means he has been using another kid's towel after that kid has dried off. The towel was not fresh. The towel was wet. AND, he was standing around waiting to be dried off while all the other kids were drying themselves. Plus, he was probably wondering, "where is my OWN towel?" "why am I the ONLY one who has to wait?"

I guess I am hurt by this because he is my son and I LOVE HIM SO STINKING MUCH! AND, all I want for him is to be happy at all times!

I am not really upset with his daycare because I should have known, but why wait two freaking months to say something to me? Why not say, oh, I don't know, after the second week? It honestly never even occurred to me to bring a towel because I guess a part of me assumed they didn't get drenched and they were allowed to play outside and dry off in the sun some.

Lesson learned! From this day forward, on Monday's I will bring a towel, board shorts, rash guard, sheet, and blanket!

"What would your children say?" Wednesday

2009-08-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

I was such a slacker last week, but am participating this week.

My son has really taken a liking to horses (really anything that moves). All things horse, from the sounds they make *insert neigh* to the movement they make, is really his passion right now. This all stems from a trip to Barnes and Noble where he finally discovered the John Deere farm set, which comes with a barn, tractor, horse, rooster, corn field, and some other stuff. He is pretty much hooked up in the farming department right now.

Anywhoooo, when I took all the stuff out of the box for this fab barn he immediately noticed the horse. We got into the whole what does a horse say? neigh! What does a horse do? gallop *me galloping around the house*! Well, he really became enthralled. The horse goes everywhere and does everything with him. He even tries to share his food with the horse. Very cute!

However, the galloping part - not so cute! Why? Because this is what goes down in our house.

Anthony: Mom, down (he wants me to lie on the floor so he can then straddle my mid-section. I know this because he is taking my hand and ever-so-gently pulling me back onto the floor and if I just sit he will gently push me back all the way to the floor:))

Me: o.k. sweetheart *thinking Sure, I will be your human horse slave*.

Anthony: Neigh, faster mommy (he wants me to pretend like I am galloping, fast, while laying on my back with him straddled across me)

Anthony: (In addition to me galloping, apparently I am not fast enough, he is bouncing himself up and down.)

This happens EVERY TIME he hears the word horse or sees the horse. I am just waiting for the moment he wants me to do this in a store. Boy would we get some stares!

I can't wait to read what your lil ones say!

Here is a picture of this beloved farm!

Taming Thoughts Through Tantalizing Pictures

2009-08-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

The quality is not great because they were all taken with my phone, sorry!

These are pics from our weekend eventure at the Science Museum and the mall play area!

WOW, where has the time gone?

2009-08-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have been such a slacker... seriously, I need to prioritize my time better. I have just been having so much fun with my lil man! We have been on the go non-stop for the past two weeks. This past weekend we had a birthday party to attend on Saturday. Then in the evening I met up with friend for dinner and drinks... always good times.

Sunday my lil man and I headed out the Science Museum for some fun. Anthony had a blast there learning about gravity, waves, air, and so much more! I highly recommend anyone with children to see if there is a local science museum in their area and take your kids there! After the museum, and a much needed nap, we met his aunt Shiloh for dinner at BJ's Brewery. Where I indulged in the Spinach and Artichoke Pizza and some of their freshly brewed Harvest Hefeweizen (YUM and one of my faves). Anthony had the delicious kid cheese pizza, which he LOVED. There pizza is absolutely delicious - it has to be bad for you!! Then we headed home and played (more like he used me as his jungle gym).

He tells me to lie down on the floor by saying, "down". Then he straddles my mid-section like I am a horse and proceeds to tell me to, "bounce, faster, faster, faster!" Mind you, he is bouncing himself so my ribs are KILLING ME today! Oh well, as long as my lil man was having fun it is all good!

AND, I found out I got another award (How fun?!?!) It is the One Lovely Blog Award!

Heather, over at at Oswald Cuties awarded me with this fab-u-lous award, check-it-out below.

By accepting the award, I am asked to pass the award on to 15 other sites I love. There are so many that I love that I am glad I get to choose 15. Here they are in no particular order:

1. Babee Love

2. Diana Rambles

3. Mommy Matters

4. Random Thoughts

5. Maneuvering Motherhood

6. Motherhood Moments

7. Raising Normal Kids

8. Two Little Birds

9. One Beer Mom

10. The Daily Dribbles

11. Donna's World

12. Newly Identified

13. 3 Boys, and Loving It!

14. Multicultural Mom

15. Planned Improvisation

Meme Award.... (Yippeeeee)

2009-07-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Yay, another award for my blog thanks to Yonca over at Yonca is Cooking. THANK YOU YONCA! ((HUGS))

Whenever you have time, please stop by her site. She has some delicious recipes and an interesting take on food. Promise your stomach will be satisfied!

Here are the rules of this award;
*Acknowledge the person who gave you the award
*List 7 Personality Traits about yourself
*Pass the award on to 7 other blogs that deserve recognition for the personalities that they share with the blogging world.

Here are my 7 personality traits:
Creative
Independent
Honest
Passionate
Caring
Respectful
Crazy, and
Always Goofy!

Now the fun stuff... time to share!
I'd like to pass this award on to following wonderful bloggers (and this is in no particular order):

1. Zealandsmom, at There's No Snakes in New Zealand
2. Maria, at Mommy Maria
3. Lil, at Gypsy Fox
4. Marianne, at Family American Style
5. Paula, at Party of Six
6. Juanita, at Blah, Blah, Blog
7. Andy, at Finding Fairy Tales

Now it is your turn lovely ladies to share the wealth!

"What would your children say?" Wednesday...

2009-07-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

My son said the cutest and the funiest stuff he has ever said last Wednesday! He was sent home from daycare early because he had two diarrhea diapers in an hour and they said he was "cranky" *rolling eyes*. He really wasn't cranky, just tired and hungry. After all, he is getting his two year molars...

Moving on...

Well, after his nap he woke up and wanted to watch Cars. Off to the living room we went. We sat on the couch, I got him some pretzel rods and water. He waited patiently for the movie to begin. If you haven't seen cars, it is a movie where the cars take the place of humans and animals, and, well, cars too, LOL.

There is this one scene where Mater and Lightin' McQueen are tractor tippin' (yes, this is like cow tippin'). When the tractors would tip over they would go "moooooo" and then drop. Anthony thoughts this was hysterical. Everytime a tractor would tip Anthony would say, "cow down!" Then giggle.

Here is a picture of Mater and Lightin' McQueen:

As you can see this is a picture I took, which means Anthony has these toy cars. Mid-way through the movie he got the bright idea to bring those cars out into the living room, to sit with us. Well, he wasn't just satisfied with them sitting there. Nope, he wanted them to do more. In fact, he wanted them to talk. He wanted them to talk so much that he picked them up and yelled, "TALK!"

I was laughing so hard. He, of course, gave me the "look" of death. Then I had to try and explain that cars really don't talk unless they are a cartoon, which was difficult because his cars in his hand matched the cars on the television and his lil brain just couldn't comprehend. Needlesstosay, he is still telling his cars to "talk!"

"What would your children say?" Wednesday

2009-07-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

Today is "What would your children say?" Wednesday, started by Marianne over at Family American Style. We are to share something memorable, funny, and/or entertaining our child(ren) have said in their lives that have stuck with us.

I could see this becoming extremely entertaining as my lil man grows. He is 21 months and has a whole lot say already! What I love most about what he says now is the majority of it is random - completely out of the blue and unrelated to what he is doing! Plus, there is the innocence of it all - like the bad words he repeats after mommy slipped up *hanging head in shame*.

Right now, since we are working with a three sentence max. vocabulary at a time, he loves to tell me to "Let GO!" The first time I heard him say this, clear as day, I about lost it to hysterics. He now tells me to "let go!" of EVERYTHING relating to him. If I am trying to undress him from his pj's to his day clothing and have a hold of his arm, he tells me to "Let GO!" If I am trying to put his shoes on and he wants to do it, I get told to "Let Go!" But, the absolute best is seeing him use his words with other children because he will actually say, "Please Let GO!" And, it is not that he uses "please"... it is the way he says "Let GO!" The cutest thing ever (and I am not saying that because I am biased - it really is!).

**Shhh, don't tell Anthony, but sometimes I will secretly pick something up of his I know he wants, try to hold his hand, give him a kiss, or something that I know will trigger him just to hear him say "Let GO!" because it is that cute!**

Monday Madness...

2009-07-20T21:27:00.001-07:00

O.k., so it wasn't really madness! This day was pretty un-eventful unless you consider my lil man passing his hearing test with flying colors and getting a good report regarding the tubes in his ears eventful, then it was!

Though, the fun did not start until later in the day when we got home from work/daycare. It was just the two of us (yeah) and let me tell you... we know how to parteeee! :) Seriously, he is so much fun to be around - I smile, laugh, and act goofy - he takes all my worries and irritants and removes them from as if they never even existed.

On the flip-side, I try to promote creativity and individuality... I think I do a good job for the most part! His new fave thing is putting stickers all over himself and me, and really anything else that he deems in need of stickers (which means anything within his reach)!

Here are some picture of him with sticker and one of me with a sticker he placed on me:) Enjoy!

I forgot, there was also a picture of him (and myself) trying on some of his hats over the weekend. Too funny! Doesn't he look adorable?

Oh yeah, and those are my socks in the first picture that he absolutely just had to have on!

This weekend my lil man had some really bad diarrhea! So bad that he has sores on his tush :( Well, I thought it would be a good idea for his tush to get some air time... yeah, that really wasn't a good idea with diarrhea and all! He went #2 (or #3 or #4 not sure what number diarrhea is but surely it is worse than #2!) in the middle of the kitchen floor while I was out grocery shopping. TRUST ME, I HEARD ABOUT HOW STUPID OF AN IDEA THAT WAS FOR THE REST OF THE DAY!!!! But, it can't be any more stupid than not disinfecting the area after it was cleaned with WET WIPES! O.k., moving on...

That ended his air time for his tush. He survived and today his behind was looking much better and his poo a lil more solid (wow, five years ago I never would have thought I would be blogging, yet alone blogging about my son's poo problems!). I wanted to go to the beach on Sunday but thought it would be a bad idea having him in the heat with his problem. Oh well, next week I will definitely get to the beach.

Saturday was fun for us. I took my lil man to the park, but it was so freaking hot outside that we only stayed for about 30 minutes. My friend met us there right as we were leaving and we all headed over to Barnes and Nobles. My lil man played at the train table in the kid section for about an hour. THEN, he noticed this John Deere Barn set that he just absolutely, without a doubt had to have. I say this because this was the first time eva he said this, "please mama, please, I want, please." I couldn't resist, so we left with a new toy! Luckily, he has played with it non-stop since we got home Saturday night! He loves it!

Well, and there you have it - our weekend in a nutshell. Not too exciting, but that is o.k. I had fun with my lil man!

Follow Friday...

2009-07-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

As promised in an earlier post, I believe from last week, I am starting Follow Friday for bloggers (stolen from Twitter:)).

This week I would like to suggest for everyone to visit Newlywed + Recent College Graduate = Newly Identified . Anna, the author of the blog, is upbeat, witty, and writes about stuff we can all relate to, at some time or another in our life. Her blog is rather new, but hopefully she will be inspired by others comments and follows to stay in the game and keep us entertained!

Please stop by her blog, leave a comment, and follow her. Promise you will be entertained.

If you do happen to stop by her blog, let me know what you think (if you want)!

Not as stupid as I may sound...

2009-07-15T18:14:00.001-07:00

I am not... wanna know why... I created a button for my blog! Check it out it is on the left side. Grab, let me know you did, and let me know if you have a button I can grab! :) Of course, this is just a filler until I get a button that is being made for me... I can't wait for that one!

Umm, can you recommend a wireless router... (LONG)

2009-07-15T13:19:00.001-07:00

I purchased an Apple MacBook Air about eight months ago. When I purchased it I also ordered some extra stuff, such as the superdrive (which is an external cd/dvd drive) and the AirPort Express.

I also have a wireless network set-up and my router is a Linksys. A couple of months ago I painted my bedroom and was forced to unplug my router. This caused havoc because I was no longer able (for some odd reason... couldn't be b/c my husband pressed the reset button thinking it was the power button on the router when plugging it back in) to log-in to my private network b/c, well, you take a guess...

Ever since then I have had issues with connectivity. This is a major pain in the ass for me as I LIVE with my computer glued to me at all times. No one in my house is even allowed to touch it, or look at it, without getting the "look" and possibly a smack on the hand!

I was finally fed up with my connectivity issues and decided to take a break from twitter, facebook, ivillage, school, and work to go the Apple online store to look in to possibly purchasing a wireless network router from Apple. I was having a difficult time locating the wireless network routers but did notice a "chat" button. So, I thought, "what the heck" and clicked on the button.

A screen popped up and it said my tech expert's name is Cheryl and she will be with me momentarily. "Awesome" is what I thought along with "I <3>

While waiting I typed the following message, "I was wondering if you could recommend a wireless network router compatible with a MacBook Air. I currently have a Linksys but am having serious connectivity issues."

Cheryl responded with "sure."

This is the flow of the conversation from this point on...

Cheryl: Let me help you with that

Me: (i am patiently waiting for her response)

Cheryl: What is the distance you need the router to work:

Me: My house, so maybe 1300 sq ft.

Cheryl: I recommend the AirPort Express (does this sound familiar?)

Me: (hmm, that sure does sound familiar to me is what I thought...) Is this something I can purchase at the Apple store?

Cheryl: Sure, I will show you. (waited about three seconds then she sent the link to "show" me)

Cheryl: Link

Me: (I clicked the link, and really started to think this not only sounded familiar but looked familiar)

Cheryl: I use this router and love it. Works well inside my home and even a good distance outside of my home.

Me: (Yeah, this is familiar, for sure.) Ya know, I think I might have purchased this when I bought my computer.

Cheryl: When did you buy your computer?

Me: About 8 months ago. Is this easy to install? Can I set-up private networks? Does it come with instructions? (All while thinking that I have this!)

Cheryl: Yes. I will send you the how to link.

Cheryl: How to link.

Me: I know I have this! I know this because I purchased it thinking it was a charger for airports and airplanes. (I really told her this!)

Me: I am so STUPID!

Cheryl: It is a great router! (totally ignoring my stupid comment)

Me: Are you secretly laughing at me, because I would be? (yes, I did ask her this)

Cheryl: Well, I wasn't before.

Cheryl: But now I am after what you said.

Me: That is o.k., I would laugh too! Thanks for your help!

Cheryl: Thanks for letting me help you today. Is there anything else I can help you with?

Me: Nope, you have helped me enough! THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!

Conversation over!

Lesson learned for today: Make sure you read what you are purchasing! Don't just assume you know what it is because of the name:) Don't grow up and be like me!

Now I can't wait to get home and use my new, errr, old but new router!

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-07-15T08:43:00.001-07:00

Watching Bee Movie and Being Attacked by a Fudgesicle...

Who do you think won the fight?

Hard Headed...

2009-07-13T20:52:00.001-07:00

Now I know where they coined the term "hard headed," LOL! My son broke his father's nose tonight. Yep, that is right... you read correctly... no, your eyes are not playin' tricks on you. They were wrestling around on the floor. I heard a loud thud and what I thought was my son's head hitting the floor, as it usually does. NOPE! That is definitely not what I heard. What I heard was....

drum roll please...

The back of my son's head smacking into his father's nose! Broken! I, unfortunately, was not a kind or sympathetic person to the situation and laughed hysterically at the situation because, well, that is what it was! My son, on the other hand, immediately got up and walked away without a single body part damaged. We are talking about my 21 month old son! I wonder where he gets his hard head from??? Hmm....

I had to take a break from reading cases to tell you all this:)

PS Please click on the bike to the left (the perdy one) because I really want to win it and will love you forever if I do win it. THX!

Can we say "stressed"?!?!

2009-07-13T15:30:00.001-07:00

I logged on to my school (in case you didn't know I do go to school online full-time as well as work full-time... helps keep me sane... somewhat) this morning only to find out that I have to read over a 100 pages of cases by WEDNESDAY!!! WTF?!?!?! Seriously!??! Not only do I have to read them, but I have to brief them. This is a total of 16 cases that I have to brief! WTF?!?!?! I will not be getting the three hours of sleep I normally get... nope, I will be living on of espresso (sounds normal for me though) and adrenalin!

I shouldn't even be posting about this right now... all of my time should be going to reading those damn cases!!! Good thing I watched True Blood last night b/c I would be so pissed (not like I am not already) if I had to postpone that until Thursday!

Well peeps, cheers in case you do not hear from me until Thursday, LOL or possibly Friday b/c I might need a day to recover:)

PS in the meantime, if you don't mind, can you please click the gorgoues bike to the left

<-------- This one, b/c I so want to win it... and can you do so every day that you visit? Let me know if there is something you want me to "click" on your blog or site so you can win... I will!

Weekend Wonders...

2009-07-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend was another fun summer weekend! Saturday during the earlier part of they day we just lounged around the house, played, and watched movies. This was a first because we are usually running errands or doing something work related. Later in the day we went over to a friend's house warming party, which was loads of fun for my lil man. He was the only kid there, but he still managed to have a BLAST. He was dancing to the music and playing outside with his toys. Super cute! Though, you will just have to take my word for it as I didn't bring my camera.

Sunday we spent the day at the beach... I <3 the water! I seriously do. I grew up in Miami and practically spent all my free time near the water. There is just something so soothing and calming about the water! I want my son to have the same feelings towards the water as I do. When summertime is here I try to spend as much time on or near the water as I can. Pretty much every weekend we spend at least one day at the beach.

Normally, we head to the beach in the morning and leave in the late afternoon! The beach we went to this past weekend also has a playground on the beach... how cool is that?!? Anthony had a blast going from the water to the playground... mommy on the other hand was T.I.R.E.D. by the time we got home, LOL. I should have napped when Anthony did at the beach...

Here are some pics of him napping (PS sorry about the quality, they are from my phone)...

What do you like most about summer?

Motto to Live By...

2009-07-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

"Ignoring the facts does not change the facts."

-- Author Unknown

Do you have a motto? If so, leave a comment and let me know:)

Follow Friday...

2009-07-10T09:29:00.001-07:00

O.k., so it is no mystery that I tweet (actually I spend most of my time LMAO at other people's thoughts:) or entering giveaways *wink*)... and there is this concept on Twitter called "follow Friday" where different users list other user names and then place #followfriday at the end. This lets others know to follow these people. Basically, this is a method for gaining more followers.

Do you see where I am headin'?

I thought it would be fun to do with blogs. Here is what I propose:

Every Friday have a post titled "Follow Friday". In the body of the post list the blog name you recommend other bloggers to follow with a link to the blog and what you like most about that blog. Make sure you are a follower of the blog you recommend:). Then your followers can venture over to that blog (and hopefully do the same thing with posting a "follow Friday" recommending a fellow blogger) leave a comment, become a follower, and so on... we do this all while earning more followers and more great blogs to entertain us.

This could be fun! Also, if you are participating in this, post a comment on to the "follow Friday" post with a link to your blog (if it is not the recommended blog) to help get the word out and so others can have an opportunity to expand their reading horizon!

Let's start this next Friday, so start thinkin', searchin', or whatever it is you do best...

Fellow Blogger Needs Help...

2009-07-09T14:27:00.001-07:00

This kind of help isn't too bad... I know you guys were probably thinking the worst... she (Mama B) needs our help by casting a vote, for details click here. She would greatly appreciate all the votes she can get. While you are there take a look around her blog, which is filled with tons of money saving tips and great ideas. Thanks for all the help!

Fallen a poem by Janet Dawson

2009-07-09T14:15:00.001-07:00

I tweet, no surprise there (you can follow me by clicking here), and came across this amazing poet/artist, Janet Dawson, check her site out here and you can follow her on twitter here.

Her words can touch the soul like rain can touch the inside of a flower. She has a poem titled "Fallen" and it describes my life perfectly... here is an excerpt from it, but to check out the entire poem click here:

Fallen by my own words

by my own way of life
by my own way of
love

Fallen by the way you look at me

by the way he
hold me
from the things you told me

Fallen like a angel with no
wings

Visit her site and let me know what you think! Also, let me know of any sites you think I might be interested in:)

No bag of cherries for me...

2009-07-09T12:42:00.001-07:00

That is how I feel about my life! Don't get me wrong... I love my son... he is my life... just other things in my life right now are extremely complicated. I have been struggling with a decision for months... o.k., I will be honest - for years!

Don't worry, it is nothing drastic like suicide or hurting another person... well, not physically at least:)

I am lost, alone, and sad for what may come of how I feel. :( And, I am not sad for me but for those involved!

I feel lost because how do you make feelings exists that never existed? Do you just continue for the sake of those involved and suffer?

I feel alone because everyone around me says to pray... I have, I do, and continue to, but nothing is changing... my heart is not in it!

I feel sad because I am not the only person who is involved, there are others lives involved!

So, you see, this is why I am in a funk, and the funk is really starting to weigh on me - physically and mentally.

Laughlin Trip...

2009-07-08T19:58:00.000-07:00

Was fun... my son did fantastic on the 5 hour drive to Laughlin, NV. He watched movies the entire ride and slept for an hour on the way there and two hours on the return drive. Unfortunately I do not have TONS of pics like I normally do because I didn't bring my big Nikon because I knew we were going to be on a boat and near water the entire trip and didn't want to risk it getting ruined. Soooo, I brought my crappy, LOL, Kodak camera, which is only about two years old. I say crappy because the batteries - no matter if they are the rechargeable or energizer batteries - die after five minutes of use. Kodak should really tell its customers to buy stock in a battery company if they purchase a Kodak camera because it becomes costly!

Back to the trip...

Friday we woke up early, and I mean early, around 6 AM and got ready for the boat. We needed to get out early so we could get to Lake Mojave and beat the rush. Seriously, there is a rush folks. People get there early so they can get their area of beach out in the middle of the lake and pitch their tents or covers. By the time we found our "spot" it was already 10 AM. We got situated and then the fun began. The kids lived in the water. Anthony is a fish!! The kid LOVES the water. I always knew this but he lived in the water for two days straight, aside from when he was napping.

Speaking of napping... the first day I forgot to bring his pack 'n play out with us so he had to sleep on a towel over the rocky beach (sorry lil guy). But he was a champ and slept like a rock! The second day I remember the pack 'n play... he was thankful!

Saturday we stayed at the lake until 4 PM, unlike Friday - we left around 6:30 PM-, and headed back to the hotel because we had purchased tickets to a dinner/Fourth of July celebration. We got showered, dressed, and headed out with our friends to the celebration. The fireworks were not spectacular but it was fun. I could not believe how well Anthony did staying up until almost 10 Pm (his normal bedtime is 7 PM), especially after being the sun all day and playing in the water. He is still trying to catch up on sleep going to bed extra early!

Anthony also loved being on the boat. However, the sad thing is, the boat would put him to sleep no matter how fast and bumpy it was. He would just pass out in my arms!

Well, enjoy some of the few pics that I do have from the trip... my friends are suppose to be emailing me *hint* their pictures, so as soon as they do I will update.

Free Blog Icon - Get it while the gettin' is good...

2009-07-08T15:15:00.000-07:00

Gypsy Fox is offering to make a free custom animated blog icon for those who follow her fabulous blog and add her button to their blog! This is a fabulous deal peeps, so check-it out because this offer is only going on until the next Wordless Wednesday.

PS she is VERY talented... see for youself!

I won... I am a weiner :p

2009-07-08T12:13:00.001-07:00

Wow, last week was a fun week for me... not only did I take a mini vaca with my Ant' man, but I also won two items. The first was from Makes Mommy Happy, Nellies Dryer Balls. Let me tell you, they are FAB-U-LOUS! I used them on Monday when I washed laundry and everything came out of the dryer nice and fluffy. AND, the best part, I cut the drying time in half and everything was completely dry. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. Love them and highly recommend these dryer balls.

Here is a pic of the dryer balls:

The second item I won was for my son and I am super stoked about it. This is from Mama B, CSN Rug. This rug is super cute and is like a mini town that my son can drive his cars on. He is gonna love it. I will post pics of the rug once it arrives.

Perky Blog Award.. Yay!

2009-07-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

Nope, your eyes aren't messin' with you... Pink Notes gave Family Affair an award for being Perky! I love it! The award is perdy itself, check-it out. Also, don't be shy and jet on over to Pink Notes become a follower and show some follower love by posting a comment! Then, come back here and let me know you did it. I promise you will be entertained, plus blog surfing is a fabulous way to find other great blogs!

For those who are wonderin' about the award, here it is...

FUNK

2009-06-30T15:36:00.001-07:00

In a funk this week. I am excited for the 4th of July b/c we are going away to Laughlin, NV. Looking forward to having fun with friends and on the water! But, for some reason, I just can't seem to blog about anything. Have lots on my mind...

Hopefully soon I will get ouf this funk and stir up some spunk! Wish me luck!

Booroi Cloth Diaper Giveaway...

2009-06-29T11:33:00.000-07:00

At Mama B's blog. These cloth diapers are pretty creative if you ask me. A PUL cover with a prefold insert, genius! What makes them genius is the design makes using prefolds a cinch... check-it out for yourself here! Mama B rated these diapers in three different areas (Day time, nap time, and nap time use) and all got an A+ or higher. For more information on how to enter click here. Giveaway is going now thru July 13th. Good Luck!

Coconut Cream Filled Cupcakes!

2009-06-27T06:25:00.000-07:00

This recipe sounds delish so I am taking a chance and posting it without trying (just don't want to forget to share). This recipe is coming to you from parents.com. If you try it out, let me know what you think. Also, let me know if you come up with some ways to cut fat and sugar and still make it taste good. Doesn't it sound yummy? Enjoy!

Coconut-Cream-Filled Cupcakes

18 cupcakes

Prep: 15 minutes
Bake: 17 minutes

Ingredients

Cupcakes:
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (2-1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 eggs
3/4 cup milk
Filling and Frosting:
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup shortening
2 cups confectioner's sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon coconut extract
1 container (1 pound) prepared dark chocolate frosting

Directions

1. Cupcakes: Heat oven to 350°F. Generously coat 18 indents in two cupcake pans with nonstick cooking spray. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt.

2. Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl on medium speed for
2 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. On low speed, add flour mixture, alternating with milk, in two additions. Divide batter among indents, 1/3 cup each.

3. Bake at 350°F for 17 minutes or until toothpick inserted in centers comes out clean. Cool cupcakes in pan on rack for 10 minutes. Remove cupcakes to rack and let cool completely.

4. Filling and Frosting: Beat butter, shortening, confectioners' sugar and milk until smooth. Mix in coconut extract. Transfer cream filling to a pastry bag and fit with a small tip. Insert tip deep into cupcake and fill with cream until you can see top bulging. Spread cupcakes with prepared frosting and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts per serving:

Servings Per Recipe 18 cupcakes
Calories 483
Total Fat (g) 27
Saturated Fat (g) 13
Cholesterol (mg) 73
Sodium (mg) 224
Carbohydrate (g) 59
Fiber (g) 2
Protein (g) 4

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Win $25 via Pay Pal at Mama B's!

2009-06-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, another fab-u-lous giveaway at Mama B's in lieu of celebrating her 25th Birthday Bash! Lucky us, eh?!?! Who wouldn't want some extra cash to do what you wish with? I know I sure wouldn't mind, and if you feel the same click here for more details. This giveaway is going on now thru July 10th. Good Luck :)

CSN Rug Giveaway...

2009-06-26T14:45:00.000-07:00

Another giveaway hosted by Mama B. In fact, Mama B will be hosting several giveaways in celebration of her 25th Birthday Bash.

This giveaway is a kids play rug from CSN Rugs.com. Here is a pic of the lovely rug (PS I saw this rug a couple of months ago and have been dying to get it for my son's room):

And the size of the rug is: 2'4'' x 6'8'' . For more details on how to enter click here. This is going on now thru July 2nd. Good Luck!

LolliDoo Cloth Diaper Giveaway...

2009-06-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

Over at Mama B a fab-u-lous giveaway is being hosted! If you are mom (or dad) with lil ones still in dipes and you love to cloth diaper, like me, then you will certaintly love this giveaway.

Mama B is giving away a LolliDoo cloth diaper. I have never used this brand, but from her review they sound awesome. For more details on how to enter and on the dipe click here. This is going on now thru June 28th. Good Luck!

Born 2 Impress Giveaway...

2009-06-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

Born 2 Impress is hosting a giveaway that I think everyone can appreciate... a Wonder Ball Laundry System from Mystic Wonders, Inc.. To learn more about how to enter this giveaway click here, giveaway is going now thru July 10th. Good Luck!

Thoughtless Thursday...

2009-06-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

(Me getting a lesson in brushing teeth from my 20 month old son!)

Superstar Son!

2009-06-23T14:11:00.001-07:00

That is what I have. We had to be at the hospital at 6 AM. YIKES! Got lil man out of bed at 5:15 AM, changed his dipe, and put him in the car (he wasn't able to drink or eat anything after midnight, so the last time he had something to drink was at 7 PM right before bed and eat was at 6:30 PM the night before). Got to the hospital on time and we were checked in by 6:05 AM. Then we had to wait for him to be evaluated from anesthesiology, so they could make sure to give him the right amount of meds for the procedure. After all of that it was about 7 AM. Then we waited some more...

The doctor came in, along with the anesthesiologist, and the rest of the team (never realized how many people had to be present for even a simple procedure!) around 7:15 AM. Around 7:40 AM we all went into the operating room minus my hubby. He had to go to the waiting room. I was only allowed to be present while they put him to sleep, then I had to go to the waiting room.

He was such a trooper! I laid him on the operating table. The anesthesiologist told me to hold his arms down, so I did. He put the mask on Anthony (Anthony did not even flinch, cry, or anything... just laid there like a good lil boy) and about a minute later was out. I left the room and went to meet with hubby. Hubby went and got us coffee (YUM), which was much needed. About a minute after hubby got back from getting us coffee, which is not far from where we were, the doctor came into the waiting room to let us know they were finished putting the tubes in.

The doctor said Anthony needed those tubes because they drained so much fluid that was goopey (his words) out of his ears that he was bound to have continual problems with ear infections because the fluid would never drained on its own. We were given drops to put in his ears for three days. The doc said someone would be calling us to meet Anthony in recovery. The phone in the waiting room rang about ten minutes later, which puts us at around 8:20 AM. When we got to the recovery room a nurse was holding Anthony. I guess that had woken him right before we got there and he was a little disoriented and upset, but when he saw us he was perfectly fine! He gave us a big hug. I sat in a chair with him while they checked his vitals. We asked them if he could eat something. They said yes, so we gave him a banana that we brought for him. They gave him some apple juice, which was the first time he had ever had packaged apple juice (He had only ever had apple juice that I have made, LOL.). He sucked that right up. Then, about ten minutes later, we were allowed to leave. They said he might get sick on the way home, but he didn't. In fact, he never got sick.

When we got home he immediately asked for "bobots" to be put on, so we obliged. He has been napping since 12:15 PM and it now 2:30 PM and still going strong. He is such a superstar my son!

PS Thanks for all the prayers!

Prayers Please!

2009-06-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

I know this is not serious surgery, but tomorrow Anthony will be getting tubes in his ears. I am asking that everyone says a small prayer for him that it goes smoothly... and, some small prayers for me that I hold up. I am not sure what time the surgery is taking place and won't know until 3 PM today. Though, they told me last week he is second (they go by age). I hope it is early, since he cannot eat or drink anything after midnight.

We are going to try and keep him up a little past his bedtime tonight so that he can eat something a little later than usual. Not sure how that will go over:) So, if you think of us at all just say a quick prayer and we will be forever grateful. Also, if you can, please say a prayer that these tubes work and there are no complications once they are put in. THANKS!

The Game...

2009-06-21T17:59:00.001-07:00

The day started off with lil man sleeping in until 8 AM. Unlucky for dad he wasn't home to sleep-in because he had duty yesterday (meaning he had to be at work for 24 hours and had to be up and going by 5:45 AM). Honestly, I didn't even get to sleep in because I woke up at 6 AM and thought I should get ready knowing we had to leave the house somewhat early for lunch and the game AND thinking he was going to wake at his normal time which is 6:30 AM... boy, I sure wish Anthony would have given me a heads-up that he was going to sleep in so I could have slept in as well! He slept for 13 hours... can anyone say growth spurt?!

After we ate breakfast, Ant' man spotted his bike (tricycle and scooter) helmet we purchased yesterday. He immediately needed the helmet put on his head! So, like a good mommy, I listened. He wore it for about 30 minutes. Check-it out...

We went to a Padres game, which started at 1:05 PM. Before the game, we ate some lunch at Dick's Last Resort for lunch and had a blast. Then we headed over to the park. Since Anthony didn't wake until 8 AM, he was not ready for a nap, so he played in the "beach" area of the ball park shoveling sand and playing catch with another kid. Around 1:30 PM he was begging to get in his stroller to take a nap, which is were he stayed sleeping until the game ended and we walked back to the car to go home around 3:30 PM. He normally takes one 2 hour nap during the middle of the day so this was not so unusual.

Here is my lil man and his daddy getting settled in the "beach" area of the ball park (oh, and in case you are wondering that is a Yankees jersey Francis wore to a Padres game, LOL)...

While at the park, a few people got busted smoking marijuana. There was a girl, who didn't look older than 18 years old if that, a male who looked to be in his late 40's, and another male who looked to be in his late 20's. Yep, they sure were smokin' the mary-jane right around the corner from us! LOL, poor people, they should have gone back to their car to do that... duh, I mean, it's not like they were at a concert or anything... They were, after all, at a baseball game in the middle of the day filled with families and small children!

On the way home we stopped at the grocery store to pick up our produce for the week. Then headed over to Filippi's to pick up our dinner. Then home, sweet home to watch three more times "bobots!"

I Wuv You Daddy...

2009-06-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

A little message from Ant' man to his daddy...

I hope you hab a wonderfuw Father's Day. Tank you for being dat best daddddeeeee in da worwd! I wuv you daddddeeeee!!!!

If you could hear my Ant' man say daddy you would understand why I spelled it that way. He draws out the last "d" and the "y" to make it sound like a bunch of "e's". Ugh, he is just too cute! At daycare he made his daddy some wonderful gifts (ya know I have pics to supply :)). And, Anthony got him a french press coffee maker (for those who don't know what that is click here) and an automatic electric kettle so he can boil the water to make the coffee.

Also, here are some pictures of the goodies Anthony made for his "daddddeeeee" at daycare and some other pictures...

Picture of Francis w/ Anthony when he was born

And, Francis with Anthony Now...

A Gift From the Aunt...

2009-06-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

This gift could not have come at a better time. Let me tell you why...

My son is A.D.D.I.C.T.E.D. to the movie Robots, which is fine if you are not the person having to watch it over and over every.single.day! He started this addiction about three weeks ago. I was in his room going through all of our kid friendly DVDs and he happened to pick this one up. He said, "dis," meaning this - as in tell me what this is. I replied telling him that the DVD was Robots. He immediately said, "bobots," and ran into the living room, opened the DVD player (not sure how he figured that one out as we rarely watch television yet alone a movie when he is awake!), opened the DVD case, and put the DVD in, turned, looked at me, and said, "on" while holding the remote control. He wanted me to turn to the television on for him.

Fast-forward three weeks later, every day he has run to the television, either when he wakes up or we get home, and says, "on!" When we pick him up from daycare the entire car ride home he is talking about "bobots." While this is cute - in the short-term - it has gotten to be somewhat boring and tiresome. My husband and I can recite the entire movie, which is a change from our days of reciting Super Troopers, LOL!

Back to the gift, the other night we came home and there was a package at our front door. Anthony immediately thought it was for him as he does with EVERY package that is delivered. Well, he was right, the package was for him. Inside was several things, such as some homemade picture frames with beautiful pictures in them... and, a collectors toy from Brookstone that just so happens to look like a robot and winds up to play music. Well, Anthony's eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning or something when he saw that "bobot." They have been attached at the hip since it arrived (literally, this thing has taken baths with my son - sure hope it doesn't rust). He is in love!

Here are some pics of the goodies...

Haircut...

2009-06-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

My lil man was desperately in need of a haircut. His last one was before Christmas, if I am remembering correctly. There could have been another one in between but I am claiming mommy brain on that one:) Well, I took pics of the before and the after. He ALWAYS looks like a baby in the before pics and not so much in the after pics. In the after pics he ALWAYS looks like a toddler :(!

See for yourself...

Before

After

While I love this stage, I miss the infant stage as well. Ya know, the one where you could have an actual moment of silence because they aren't talking yet. The moments where they are completely dependent upon us for EVERYTHING (whereas, now they are telling us how to do things). I miss all the snuggle, cuddle, or whateva you like to call it time I used to get... now, I practically have to beg for a kiss or hug :( I know he loves me, he told me so one day when I picked him up from daycare. Actually, it was more of an announcement to the entire classroom, LOL.

O.k., now I am just rambling, but it is true... all the stages that I have experienced so far have been awesome, which makes me look forward to what is to come...

Flip Ultra Giveaway at Mommies Angels...

2009-06-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

What a fabulous giveaway this is! Since these Flip video cameras have come out I have been dying to get one, but couldn't justify spending the money on it since I have a couple of cameras with video capability and a camcorder. However, this is an awesome lil camera to keep with you for the unexpected times!

This giveaway is taking place at Mommies Angels, which is a great site to visit for product reviews. For more information on this fabulous giveaway click here! But, here is some information, from Mommies Angels, on the Flip Ultra:

I got the great chance to review the Flip Video Ultra and I loved it! the Flip Video Ultra is pocket-sized and easy to use! One of the features I love is the one-touch recording and digital zoom. Seconds after you power it on, you are able to start capturing video. the Flip Video Ultra will capture 120 minutes of full-VGA-quality video on 4GB of built-in memory - there are no tapes of memory cards required. I love how easy it is to upload the videos to the computer to share with family and friends and burn to DVD too!

So, go on, check-it out, ya know you want to!

Jazzed...

2009-06-19T15:35:00.001-07:00

My son's God Father's band, Terry Meyer Band is one of the acts performing at the Dave Matthews Band concert tonight in Pittsburgh, PA. I am so proud and excited... alright, and a little bit jealous, that he is 1) performing at the Dave Matthews concert, 2) will get to meet Dave and the rest of the band, and 3) will get to see the concert BACKSTAGE!!! How cool is that?

Anthony is also lucky because he has promised to bring him something back!

Giveaway Over at Life with Lulu and Pete

2009-06-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

Ooh, I just LOVE giveaways and this giveaway is a top one! Look at all that is included:

"The giveaway includes:*adorable note cards*Vera Bradley*some cupcake/kitchen goodies*Bath and Body Works*and of course, a few surprises:)"

Doesn't that sound exciting... and, refreshing!?!? The giveaway is being hosted by Life with Lulu and Pete for details click here!

Up, Tubes, and So Much More...

2009-06-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we took Anthony to see the movie Up in 3-D at the El Capitan. It was awesome and so was Anthony considering it took us over 3 hours to drive there and the same on the way home. He sat in his own seat and wore the 3-D glasses and enjoyed every minute of it. The movie was super cute, even for adults:)

Yesterday we had an appointment with ENT since Anthony has had so many ear infections and at every visit has been noted as having fluid in his ears. At the visit they did a hearing test. He has some hearing loss, but they think it is due to the fluid. He is scheduled to get tubes next Tuesday, June 23rd. They asked about his speech, which is perfect, in case we might need to be referred to speech therapy. Luckily, he talks up a storm and speaks clearly. My DH and I attribute that to us being loud people, LOL.

Also, on our trip to LA Anthony had his first slim jim, which he LOVED. I didn't think he would like, yet alone devour it, because he is a picky eater. Here are some pics... one in the theater and the other of Anthony eating a slim jim.

In addition to Anthony counting to five, he now can identify shapes and some colors. I think he limits the colors to his faves, such as blue, red, and yellow. Occasionally he will identify green!

Giveaway at Mommas Review ROCKS...

2009-06-12T21:01:00.000-07:00

This is a giveaway for people with children. Mommas Review is giving away (brace yourself) the Nature Station Playhouse by Step 2. This will keep your kids entertained for hours! I, err.... my son has been wanting this playhouse for two months now, so this is an exciting giveaway. Click here for more details on how to win. Good Luck!

GIVEAWAY Time at Just for Me... And You...

2009-06-12T20:42:00.000-07:00

This giveaway comes at a perfect time... summer is near! Check-it out Just For Me... And You giveaway. The lovely gals over at Just For Me... And You are giving away a ModBe swim top.

The tops are flattering for all shapes and sizes. Plus, they come in fun colors! What more could a gal ask for? The giveaway is going now till June 21st, so click here to get the lowdown on how to win a ModBe swim top.

Productive...

2009-06-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Productive is how I feel. In just a short amount of time, 2 hours to be exact, I accomplished several things. First, I made dinner, which was yummy pizza for my son and I . Second, I baked these delicious banana chocolate chip muffins (recipe to follow). Third, packed my son's lunch and my lunch for tomorrow. Fourth, read, played, bathed, and put my son to bed. And, now, fifth, I am getting ready to go workout. I deserve a nice pat on the back... but will settle for a delicious glass of wine!

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

2/3 cup sugar

2 tablespoons ground flax seed

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)

1 large egg

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup milk

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line twelve 1/3-cup muffin cups with foil muffin liners. Mix flour, sugar, flax seed, baking powder, salt and cinnamon in large bowl. Mix mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, milk and vanilla extract in medium bowl. Stir banana mixture into dry ingredients just until blended (do not overmix). Stir in chocolate chips.

Divide batter among prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake muffins until tops are pale golden and tester inserted into center comes out with some melted chocolate attached but no crumbs, about 32 minutes. Transfer muffins to rack; cool.

I used a large muffin pan so it only made six healthy sized muffins, but if you used a small it might make 24 and for medium size muffin pan it might make 12. Make them, and let me know what you think.

Giveaways I Like...

2009-06-11T15:27:00.001-07:00

Here is a list of some of the current giveaways going on that I like, and thought you might like:

Makes Mommy Happy has a Nellie's All-Natural giveaway where two lucky winners will win dryer balls & fragrance sticks. Rules for the give away can be found at Makes Mom Happy's (click for more details on rules) website. Good Luck! Also, this giveaway is going on from 6/9 - 6/23/09.

Another at Makes Mommy Happy: Chic & Carry Wristlet, Chic & Cozy Giveaway (click for more details on rules). This giveaway is a fave because the product is practically ingenious. Anyone with a kid will agree. This giveaway is going on from 6/7 - 6/21/09. Good Luck!

Just for Me and You is having a giveaway as well! Blush Topless Undershirt (click for more details on rules). Us ladies are always searching for ways to layer and add color or depth to our outfit, well, this lovely undershirt is the answer to our prayers. My fave is Neon! Check-out, let me know what you think, but most importantly participate in the giveaway, which is going on until 6/19/09. Good Luck! ** Click here ----> Blush to view more Blush items!

Five Years...

2009-06-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

This is how long my beloved husband thinks we have been married! NOT, we will be married for four years this coming July. He sent me an email this morning talking about the five year anniversary present and it being an appliance. I quickly reminded him that the gift from him should be something I would enjoy, not him. Then I got to thinking, this year will not be our five year anniversary but our four year anniversary. So, I included in the email this "Um, and, I don’t know if you are married to someone else but this year will be our FOURTH Wedding anniversary… did you look that one up???"

Do you think he will get the hint? I never said I married a mathematician!

Time Confusion...

2009-06-11T05:37:00.000-07:00

Not sure what the deal is but someone messed with my son's internal clock. Lately he has been waking up at 5:30 am - No, your eyes are not messing with you... yes, it is that early on the weekends as well! While I love my lil man to pieces, this is so killing me. Doesn't he know he is cutting in to my twitter, ivillage, facebook, sometimes myspace, blogging, and online shopping time? I think I must have a talk with him. OR, find the button to re-set his internal clock.

Why do I have to work!??!?!

2009-06-10T12:16:00.000-07:00

I swear, someone is out to get me. I wish I did not have to work... well, I probably don't have to work but enjoy the extra money to be able to do fun stuff. Sometimes I wonder if the fun stuff is really even worth it. My job is depressing! I hate coming in to work day after day and hearing people complain day after day. Don't they know I have enough to complain about myself?!? Obviously they don't know!

Twitter, Everyone is Doing It...

2009-06-10T09:33:00.000-07:00

O.k., so I have been wondering what all this hype about Twitter was, but apparently EVERYONE is doing it. No, I do not fall barren to peer pressure, but my girl Danielle is always winning stuff - cool stuff that is useful. I asked her how she was doing it. She is now giving me a training session on winning (I told her she should write a book b/c seriously the girl wins several items a day!). If you twitter, follow me, Lionlambluv. I will admit that I feel like a bit of a Twitter virgin...hahaha, that sounds funny! Check-it, let me know what you think... this could be fun, and, yet another addiction.

Making a List and Not Checking it Twice!!

2009-06-09T08:51:00.000-07:00

Well, since hubby is going to deploy in July I thought I should try to plan at least one really fun activity per month until he returns six months later. Here is what I have got so far:

July - Knott's Soak City here in Chula Vista, CA http://www.knotts.com/soakcity/sd/index.shtml
August - Knott's Berry Farm in Anaheim, CA http://www.knotts.com/
September - Birch Aquarium La Jolla, CA http://aquarium.ucsd.edu/
October - We fly to Miami for a week, then on his actual birthday will go to Legoland Carlsbad, CA http://www.copperbluecreative.com/legoland/site/legolandca/
November - Wild Animal Park San Diego, CA http://www.sandiegozoo.org/wap/index.html
December - Legoland (again, I know, but I thought it would be fun with all the Christmas lights) Carlsbad, CA and I was thinkin of going to Big Bear the weekend of Christmas. http://www.bigbear.com/lodging.php
January -

As you can see I am totally stumped for January! I need help... suggestions are welcomed:)

Vocabulary of a Toddler...

2009-06-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

Anthony has really picked up with his vocabulary. It is really amazing to watch this all transpire and him going from a mute baby to babbling toddler. He LOVES, LOVES, LOVES to point out bugs, and sometimes things that are not bugs but he thinks are bugs. The way he says bugs is super cute... he pronounces the word correctly but it just sounds cute coming from his mouth. My all time fave word of his is whale. Why? Because it is not just whale but it is whaaaawwwe. His "l's" are "w's". Another favorite is motorcycle because he says "gogocylce". He knows a "gogocylce" by sound and look, so he is ALWAYS announcing when one is in our presence. Though, these are not the only words he says. Here is a list of words he says and uses correctly on a daily basis:

up, on, off, out, down, please, shoes, socks, teeth, eyes, nose, ears, mouth, hands, elly utton for belly button, milk or moo, sheep or baaaa, lion or rrrooooaaarrr, animal cracker, fish, water, cup, all done, this, that, moon, sun, bee, bug, utterfly for butterfly, wady bug for lady bug, whaaaawwwe for whale, sunscreen, pool, kick, ball, kitchen, hot, cold or brrrrr, owie, kiss, hug, mouse, clock, watch, horse or neighhhh, waffwe for waffle, cheese, apple, banana, strawberry, octopus, monkey, chicken, bread, cookie, wowwipop for lollipop, sickle for popsicle, ice, garbage, uh-oh, oh-no, more, swim, jump, bus, train or choo-choo, wred for red, yewwow for yellow, one, two, three, four, five, puzzwe for puzzle, crayon, sticker, color, book, read, dog, cat, bird, flower, phone, hello, bye-bye, night-night, hot dog, spoon, fork, bowwe for bowl, owrange for orange, stairs, slide, park, bubbles, emlo, pat...

I am sure there are many more words he says but these are the ones that stand out the most because he says these on a daily basis.

Silence is not always golden...

2009-06-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

Silence is not always good when you have a toddler. Nope, silence can be very bad. Luckily, today, for me, it was not that bad - just messy and later probably very foul smelling. Anthony decided it was more fun to shake the milk out of his sippy rather than drink it. He was sitting peacefully on the couch eating his breakfast, drinking his milk (or so I thought) while watching his beloved Phineas and Pherb. WRONG... I noticed it was a little quiet because he will normally giggle when watching Phineas and Pherb but nada today. Pure silence... which set off my mommy alarm and caused me to stop washing the dishes and to peak around the corner. Sure enough, he was doing something he shouldn't have been. Shaking his milk out of his cup, which not only drenched the couch but his outfit as well, so we had an emergency clothing change before we set-off to daycare. Lesson learned... do not enjoy the silence rather run to see what your toddler is doing!!!

Strawberry Pickin' and Stuff...

2009-06-07T19:47:00.000-07:00

We had a blast this weekend. Anthony has been worn out everyday, so much so that he was ready for bed tonight by 5:30 pm. Not too mention he has been having some serious teething pains. We *think* he is getting his two year molars. OUCH! He is literally trying to eat himself by gnawing on his arm and hands.

Saturday we went strawberry pickin'. I think he ate more strawberries than he put in the bucket. :) He had a blast searching for the perfect strawberry. He definitely pointed out ALL of the strawberries, but only picked the ones I said were good. He is such a good boy. He enjoyed frolicking down the rows of strawberries (and playing in the mud)! Here are some picks from that adventure. I am not in them because, of course, I am the one taking them as is the case all the time. (No, I am not saying this with haste:)) Also, here is a link to where we went strawberry pickin':
Carlsbad Strawberry Company

Today we went bowling with hubby's command. Anthony had fun but didn't really grasp the concept of taking "turns". He wanted it to be his turn all the time. Though, after bowling two balls he was done. Carrying a 7 lb bowling ball is a lot of work for a 20 month old. Let me tell you, he was not only carrying that ball but throwing it. He is a little muscle man! Here are some pics of him in the car on the ride home eating some of my chocolate chip oatmeal cookies I made today. Do you think he liked them?

Flying, flying, flying...

2009-06-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

o.k. so we are not flying yet, but come October 1st we will be:) Anthony and I *uh oh, what did I get myself into* are flying to Miami to celebrate his birthday. I booked our flights less than an hour ago and his Nana already has the party planned, LOL. Did I mention she was EXCITED?!?!?! I got a killer deal on flights so I was stoked about that. Though, it will just be the two of us as Daddy will be deployed :( We will take lots of video and pictures for daddy so it doesn't seem like he missed out on too much. This is going to be a blast... Now I just hope the flight goes smoothly!!!

He is Growing Up :(

2009-06-03T11:12:00.001-07:00

Oh where to start...

Anthony is growing up. I know this for sure! He is pointing to things outside and calling them by their proper name. For instance, we were outside playing on Sunday and he pointed to the sky. We could see the moon even though it was day light out. Anthony pointed and said "moon!". Then we saw some bees and he pointed to those and said "bees," though I did have to inform him that bees are not friendly and can actually cause an owie! He was o.k. with that b/c he quickly moved on to pointing out bugs.

Though, the icing on the cake is from yesterday. When I picked him up from daycare he ran to me while saying "mama!". I picked him up, gave him a kiss, and then he blurted out clear as day "I WUV YOU!" Ugh, he stole my heart and officially has me wrapped around his finger. What is a mama to do with such a cutie like him???

He is just a ball of fun and is always on the run but is definately making life fun.

My EYE...

2009-04-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

It is awful. Not the color. Not the shape. But the pain it is causing me. For two weeks it has been bloodshot. People at work must think I am either a drug addict or an alcoholic because that is how red they are!!! It.Hurts! It.Itches! And, I just want to peel my eyes out their sockets. Incase you were wondering what my eye looked like I am going to supply a picture of just one of my eyes, but this is how BOTH of my eyes look.

I am waiting for a phone call from the eye doctor...

Addictions...

2009-04-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

Back in December of 2008 I started reading the Twilight series. Immediate addiction, hooked, lined, and sunk!!!! I have read it twice, in full, since then. Twilight the movie came out on DVD on March 21st. I have watched it four times, once with commentary on (will never do that again). Downloaded the Twilight soundtrack from iTunes, listen to it NONSTOP. So much so that my son knows all the songs and can hum along with them! He is 18 MONTHS!!! :)

Now I have started reading a new series, Sookie Stackhouse, written by Charlaine Harris. Ugh, I just cannot seem to get enough. Normally I limit myself to reading while working out because I know myself. I know I will be glued to the book and never want to put it down to do anything. Well, I have now allowed myself to read at night before bed. Still not enough. I have brought the book to work with me to read on my break!! This is insane. I have got to stop myself. I keep telling myself that I shoudl limit myself b/c there are only so many books left in the series and I should want to make it last. That doesn't work. Why? Because I say that I will just re-read Twilight again. When I am finished with that I will re-read the Sookie Stackhouse series! Vampire novels can by so alluring and really draw a person in!!!

Easter and much more...

2009-04-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, April 5th, we died Easter eggs. Anthony had a blast as did Bella, the neighbor. Then, after they finished with the eggs, we dipped rice krispy treats in chocolate and coated them with sprinkles. I will post pics later as I have not downloaded them. They had so much fun and a mess was definitely made.

Fastforward to today, Tuesday, April 7th, Anthony is officially 18 months today :( *sad*. He also started at a new daycare, which is more like a pre-school. My lil guy is so laidback. He did so well this morning and didn't even cry. He fell right in step with other children and the routine. I am just a little worried about his eating there since he is rather picky. He might be shy at first, but hopefully the hunger will take-over, LOL!

Annoyances...

2009-02-03T11:42:00.001-08:00

Why do people who don't have kids find it funny to say things to people who DO have kids like: Oh my advice would be to drink heavily? OR, my all time fave, Thank goodness we don't have any kids yet or when you are talking about going out - What are you going to do with the kids? Like as if having kids is awful and a burden! Do they not realize how offensive this is to people with kids? Obviously not because this is, of course, all coming from the same people who are too selfish to have kids.

I'll tell you what is NOT annoying... this...look at this cutie!!!

What a day!!!!

2009-01-28T19:34:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh, where do I begin? Today literally felt like a Monday. Too be honest, every day this week has felt like a Monday. Work was insanely busy for me, which just made me want to be done with the day faster than it was heading in that direction! Today was one of those days at work when you feel like saying "screw eating healthy, pass me a nice chocolate cupcake with some buttercream frosting (and LOTS of the frosting)! Though, I am happy to report I did no such thing but I was thinking that like every 5 minutes... oh, who am I kidding, like every 5 SECONDS!

After work I decided to rearrange Anthony's room... all.by.myself. See, hubby is on his way back from a 10-day work-up. I always get these bright ideas to do things like this when I am alone with no help. BUT, I was successful and Anthony now has so much more room in his, well, room, LOL. It looks nice. He seemed happy about it while playing with his toys.

I was going to do Wii boxing but after the day I had I just want to sit on my bed and tinker around on the computer. Especially since hubby isn't here.

I am posting a pic, or two, of Anthony that was taken last night. He was actually pretty funny when I was taking his picture. I was telling him to pose and he was actually posing. He would twirl around and tilt his head - so cute. And one of me!

WOW, where have I been?

2009-01-26T20:12:00.001-08:00

I'll tell you where I have been... I have been living life! Not always the good life, but life! Working full-time, going to school full-time, spending time with family, and trying to have a little left over "me" time has left me with, well, no time for this blog! YIKES! I have even gotten bad about taking pictures of my now almost 16 month old! I haven't even updated my profile picture. I am bad, bad to the bone.

I will say this, there is one addiction that has taken over me and it is TWILIGHT. Who would have thunk it? I am totally and utterly dazzled, uh, I mean addicted.

Anthony is doing so much now it is hard to keep up. He mimics EVERYTHING we do. Yowsers, I really need to be careful with my not so nice potty mouth. I am working on this, with the help of my husband of course (I am of course talking about his nasty glares when I say the "f" word). He is also running around (has been for months actually, like 7 to be more exact ;) ) He claps his hands, pats his legs, tells you what he wants and if you don't respond with a quickness he will stomp his foot! Overall, he is a perfect little boy!

We spent Thanksgiving in Miami, Christmas at Disneyland (we were actually there the entire week!). Anthony loved both places and did fantastic on the plane.

We are headed to Denver for Valentines Day weekend. Sort of happened that way. Def. not planned b/c I am not a fan of celebrating V-Day (hey, we all have our quirks.).

I was doing good with my weight loss. I was down to my pre-preggers weight. Then the holidays came!!!!! I gained some weight. So, now I am back where I started (o.k. maybe not EXACTLY where I started, but it damn near feels close. The scale says otherwise but my clothing is busting at the seems - at least it feels that way!) OH, and most importantly, I am trying to drop another 15 to 20 lbs before April (wishful thinking I know) b/c we are going to start trying again. Hopefully we can conceive before hubby is deployed in July! Wish us luck (i.e. keep us in your prayers)!!!

My promise is to get better with this blog. You just wait, I am going to be posting so much you will get sick of me... HA!

10 Months (oh no, in 2 months he will be a year!)

2008-08-08T10:55:00.000-07:00

That is sad to think about!! Yes, it means my baby is growing, getting older, gaining more independance. He is doing so much now. Let's see:

He took his first step (and only one step) on Wednesday.
He is cutting two more teeth which will bring him to a total of eight teeth.
He sings the Beach Boys song Barbara Ann (yes, you read right...he sings it).
He says mama and dada.
Last night he said thank you.
I can only imagine what tomorrow brings...hopefully not more of this =)